Review Scene: James Taylor, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne – 8th February 2017

James Taylor, what can you say? Fantastic!

Dressed casually, but expensively, he wowed the audience from the very beginning, receiving a standing ovation before even singing or playing a note. He clearly has a very loyal following.

With an all star band including, Jimmy Johnson on bass, ‘Blue’ Lou Marini (Blues a brothers Band) on saxes, Michael Landau on guitar.

Click for the full gallery by Mandy Hall.

His unique way of introducing the the band across most of the evening – one at a time between songs – worked very well.

The night consisted of two sets of some new and some old songs. The newer songs stood up incredibly well with the older known songs.

Taylor really loves and appreciates his audience. In the 20 minute break between the two sets he stayed at the front of stage signing autographs, taking photos and talking with the fans. A lot of other performers could learn from him.

One thing not to be overlooked is James unique guitar style which is as individual as his voice. With a great sense of rhythm and dynamics he makes it look effortless.

Songs included “Fire and Rain“, “How Sweet It Is” and a great newer, very bluegrass influenced song, “Today, Today, Today” – the first song from his most recent album Before This World.

I had the feeling the crowd would have stayed all night if they kept on playing. All in all an excellent night out.

Click for the full gallery by Mandy Hall.

About Martin Cilia 84 Articles
Martin is an Australian guitarist and vintage guitar collector. Apart from his solo work he is a member of The Atlantics, Dave Warner’s From the Suburbs and is currently guitarist in Mental As Anything.